Liquorice components could recover glucocorticoid resistance

Glucocorticoids are often used as treatments for inflammatory diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Patients however are suffering from glucocorticoid resistance and this can present a serious problem for doctors who may look for healthy and efficient alternatives.

Glycyrrhizic acid (GA) and 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (18βGA) are bioactive compounds in liquorice and used to treat ailments such as coughs and colds.

GA and 18βGA have already shown to exhibit potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Kao et al have designed an in vitro glucocorticoid resistance model to verify the effects of GA and 18βGA on glucocorticoid resistance that was induced by Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS).

Results have shown that these two phytochemicals from Liquorice can restor glucocorticoid sensitivity by consuming ROS. Various mechanisms are postulated in this article.

In conclusion, this study provides a possible strategy for enhancing the efficacy of glucocorticoids and may improve the prognosis of patients with serious inflammatory diseases.